The event, held before the premiere of Mr. Huckabee’s anti-abortion film, featured Rep. Michele Bachmann, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, Texas Gov. Rick Perry and former Sen. Rick Santorum explaining how they would prevent abortions should they win the presidency.

“I do want you to know there are four candidates who cleared their schedules and made this a priority event,” Mr. Huckabee said. “They all have 1,000 things to do.”

Mr. Huckabee also noted that he understands the scheduling gymnastics of a presidential campaign and that “all the candidates, even the ones didn’t come, indicated their support.”

As Republicans court this state’s divided evangelical voters, perhaps no voice is more influential than Mr. Huckabee’s, but the former governor has said he won’t make an endorsement before the caucuses.

Those who showed up were well-received, with Mr. Santorum walking out to the loudest applause. The former senator has held more Iowa events this year than any other candidate but averages 6% support in polls of likely GOP caucus-goers, according to Real Clear Politics.

“Some people have called for a truce on the social issues,” Mr. Santorum said, a reference to an oft-quoted proposition by Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels. A baby then let out a cry, causing the candidate to say, “I agree!”

About Washington Wire

Washington Wire is one of the oldest standing features in American journalism. Since the Wire launched on Sept. 20, 1940, the Journal has offered readers an informal look at the capital. Now online, the Wire provides a succession of glimpses at what’s happening behind hot stories and warnings of what to watch for in the days ahead. The Wire is led by Reid J. Epstein, with contributions from the rest of the bureau. Washington Wire now also includes Think Tank, our home for outside analysis from policy and political thinkers.